FAQ: Reading Partners

Q. WHO DO Reading PARTNERS SUPPORT?

A. Supporting MNPS Reading initiatives is a priority for PENCIL, first and foremost through direct tutoring with MNPS students at their schools. Students identified by school staff as needing intervention are paired with Literacy Partners for additional one-on-one support. Students receive weekly 30-minute sessions reinforcing classroom reading assignments. Our Reading Partners model is undergoing some modifications for the 2018-2019 school year and more details will be available soon. But you can still register to volunteer and begin the background check process.

Q. What is the time commitment for a volunteer?

A. Volunteers are asked to commit to one 30-minute weekly session for at least 8 sessions.

Q. What are the available times?

A. Reading Partners are paired with students during the school day. For elementary schools, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. and for middle schools, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Volunteers can provide a few times and days that will work for their schedule and the Reading Coordinators will work to match a student with your top availability.

Q. I want to volunteer, but I have concerns about the weekly commitment. Can I still get involved?

A. Yes! If you know ahead of time you will only miss one or two sessions, we can certainly work with that. Consistency is key in this program so we cannot allow for too many missed sessions. Volunteers also have the option to pair with a co-worker or friend to share a time slot and student. This way, there is always someone guaranteed to meet with the student.